Welcome to Saska Hotel Boutique, your gateway to the majestic city of Cusco, a place full of history, culture, and living traditions. If you’re looking to bring a piece of this city home, there’s no better way than through its local crafts. In this Shopping Guide in Cusco, we’ll show you the best places and secrets to find those unique treasures that will make your visit an unforgettable experience.
Why Buy Local Crafts?
Crafts are not just objects; they are handmade stories, traditions captured in materials, and the passion of artisans who dedicate their lives to keeping the culture of their land alive. By buying local crafts in Cusco, you’re not just taking home a souvenir, but also supporting the local economy and contributing to the preservation of ancestral techniques.
Where to Find the Best Crafts in Cusco?
San Pedro Market: The Heart of Local Trade
The San Pedro Market is a vibrant and lively place where locals do their daily shopping and visitors can immerse themselves in Cusquenian culture. Here you’ll find everything from colorful textiles to ceramics and jewelry, all made by local hands.
Cusco Artisan Center: Variety and Quality
Located near the historic center, the Cusco Artisan Center is the perfect spot for those looking for high-quality crafts in one place. This market offers a wide range of products, from traditional textiles to silver items, all guaranteed for their authenticity.
San Blas Neighborhood: Find Unique Pieces
The San Blas Neighborhood is known as the artisans’ quarter. Walking through its cobblestone streets, you’ll find small shops and workshops where local artists create and sell their works. It’s the ideal place for those looking for unique pieces and wanting to meet the creators behind them.
Tips for Buying Crafts in Cusco
- Learn to Differentiate the Authentic: Do some research on the characteristics of genuine Cusco crafts so you can identify them and ensure your purchase is authentic.
- Bargain Respectfully: Bargaining is common in the markets, but it should always be done with respect. Remember, you are paying for someone’s work and tradition.
- Visit Several Places Before Deciding: Sometimes, you’ll find the same item in different places at different prices. Take your time to look for the best option.
- Support Local Artisans: Whenever possible, buy directly from the artisans. This way, your money goes directly to them, supporting their art and their community.
Taking a craft from Cusco home means taking a piece of its spirit. Every time you look at your souvenir, you’ll not only remember the landscapes and history of the city but also the hands that created it and the tradition it represents. It’s a way to keep the experience of your trip alive and share a bit of the magic of Cusco with your loved ones.
From Saska Hotel Boutique, we hope this Shopping Guide in Cusco has been helpful and inspires you to explore the cultural richness of our city. Cusco is a place to be experienced with all the senses, and what better way to remember it than through its crafts. Happy treasure hunting in the imperial city.